Country guide · 🇨🇳 China · Last verified: September 2026

China Passport Photo Requirements

Official photo specifications for China Passport — size, background, head position, and submission format. Verified against cs.mfa.gov.cn.

Written by the PixID.studio compliance team · September 2026

Verified against cs.mfa.gov.cn, September 2026. Each requirement is automatically checked when you create your photo with PixID.

Size

33×48 mm

Digital upload

390×567 px

MFA / COVA · 33×48 mm

Background

White

Expression

Neutral

Ears

Both visible

Head covering

Religious only

Recency

≤ 6 months

Resolution

300 DPI

Glasses

Not allowed

Medical exception only

Photos required

2 identical

Note: China passport photos are 33×48 mm — taller and narrower than the EU 35×45 mm default and not the US 2×2 square. Head height should be 28–33 mm with both ears visible. Counters expect a plain white background; grey or light-blue studio paper is a common refusal.

Background and lighting

The background must be plain white, uniform and completely shadow-free. Grey or light blue is refused at many Chinese passport offices. Requirements:

Uniform colour — no gradients, patterns, or textures
No shadows cast on the background or on the face
Evenly lit — no dark spots or bright patches
No other people or objects visible in the frame

Avoid wearing clothing that matches the background colour, as it can blend in and cause rejection.

Expression and appearance

Expression: Neutral. Mouth closed, no smiling.
Eyes: both open, looking directly at the camera. No red-eye or glare.
Ears: Both visible must be visible.
Glasses: not permitted. Sunglasses and tinted lenses always prohibited.
Head covering: Religious only. Full face must be visible with no shadows.
Hair: must not cover the eyes or obscure facial features.
Clothing: everyday attire. Uniforms not permitted.

Common rejection reasons

Wrong size — must be 33×48 mm, not EU 35×45 mm or US 2×2. Schengen crops are a common rejection.
Wrong background — must be plain white. Grey, blue, off-white, or patterned studio backdrops fail.
Glasses — not permitted unless medically documented.
Shadows — on the face or background from poor lighting.
Head size incorrect — face must fill 70–80% of the frame.
Non-neutral expression — smile, raised eyebrows, or open mouth.
Photo too old — must be taken within ≤ 6 months.
Low resolution or blur — minimum 300 DPI for print submissions.
Digital retouching — beauty filters or skin smoothing cause rejection.

Verified against cs.mfa.gov.cn · All checks automated

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Frequently asked questions

What are the China Passport photo requirements?

China Passport photos must be 33×48 mm with head height 28–33 mm and a plain white background. Neutral expression, both ears visible, no glasses. Photo within 6 months. Min 300 DPI. Source: cs.mfa.gov.cn.

Is a China passport photo the same as a Schengen 35×45 mm photo?

No. China uses 33×48 mm with head height 28–33 mm — not the EU 35×45 mm biometric crop or the US 2×2 square. Using a standard Schengen export is a frequent rejection reason at MFA counters and COVA uploads.

What size is a China Passport photo?

The required size is 33×48 mm. Head height should be 28–33 mm with both ears visible and a neutral expression — not the 70–80% face fill rule used on many EU passport forms.

What background is required for a China Passport photo?

The background must be plain white, uniform and shadow-free. Grey or light blue is refused at many Chinese embassy and passport-office counters. No patterns, textures, or objects.

Can I wear glasses in a China Passport photo?

No. Glasses are generally not permitted. Prescription glasses may be allowed with a medical certificate — check cs.mfa.gov.cn.

How recent must a China Passport photo be?

The photo must have been taken within 6 months and reflect your current appearance.

Can I create a China Passport photo online?

Yes. PixID creates compliant China Passport photos: select your document, upload a photo, and get a ready-to-use file in minutes. $4.99, 100% money-back guarantee if rejected.